Domestic Worker Contract Template for Switzerland

A Domestic Worker Contract is a specialized employment agreement that governs the relationship between private households and domestic staff in Switzerland. This document is legally required under the Federal Act on Domestic Workers and must comply with both federal and cantonal employment regulations. The contract protects both parties by clearly defining rights, responsibilities, and working conditions while ensuring compliance with Switzerland's comprehensive labor laws.

When do you need this document?

You need a Domestic Worker Contract whenever you hire someone for regular household duties, whether full-time or part-time. This includes hiring housekeepers, nannies, caregivers for elderly family members, gardeners, or any other domestic staff. The contract is mandatory if the worker is employed for more than 5 hours per week by the same household. Even temporary or seasonal domestic workers require proper documentation to ensure legal compliance and protection for both parties.

Key legal considerations

The contract must specify exact working hours, rest periods, and overtime compensation in accordance with federal minimums. Salary provisions must meet cantonal minimum wage requirements, with clear payment schedules and any additional benefits outlined. Social security contributions are mandatory, and you must register both yourself and your employee with cantonal authorities. The agreement should include termination clauses that comply with Swiss employment law, including notice periods and severance requirements. Health and safety provisions are crucial, particularly for live-in domestic workers, and must address accommodation standards if housing is provided.

Legal requirements in Switzerland

Under the Federal Act on Domestic Workers, you must provide written contracts that comply with the Normalarbeitsvertrag standards. The Swiss Code of Obligations governs general employment terms, while the Federal Act on Work in Industry, Trade and Commerce sets specific working hour limitations and rest period requirements. You must register the employment relationship with your canton's labor authority and ensure proper social insurance coverage under the Federal Social Insurance Law. Cantonal regulations may impose additional requirements such as specific minimum wages or registration procedures. The contract must be written in a language the employee understands, and both parties should retain signed copies for their records.